LOS ANGELES, January 24, 2007 - Renowned for bringing guests the most innovative gastronomic programs and experiences at sea, luxury cruise specialist Crystal Cruises announces an industry-wide culinary first. Effective immediately, Crystal Cruises is trans-fat free.
While many of the foods served aboard the award-winning Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony have been trans-fat free for a long time, the decision was made to eliminate trans fats in response to the growing public health trend and is in line with Crystal's continuing commitment to offer its guests healthy food selections.
The ultra-luxury line's expert chefs have removed all trans fats in favor of more than a dozen trans-fat-free oils, including sesame seed, pumpkin seed, walnut seed, corn oil, and several olive oils, providing more healthful and flavorful alternatives. The changes have been incorporated across the ships' menus and restaurants and include everything from French fries to salad dressings. Whether for sautéing, deep frying, drizzling or baking, Crystal chefs are only using trans-fat free fats.
"Crystal is proud to pioneer a trans-fat-free culinary experience for our guests no matter where in the world they travel," says Toni Neumeister, vice president, food and beverage operations. "Although trans-fats are less expensive and purchasing trans-fat-free oils is more difficult, Crystal's priority in this initiative is to offer healthy food choices. We are committed to implementing our ban on trans fats in spite of the challenges of provisioning trans-fat-free oils around the globe."
According to the National Academy of Sciences, trans fatty acids are not essential and provide no known benefit to human health. While both saturated and trans fats
increase levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), trans fats also lower levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), increasing the risk of coronary heart disease. The World Health Organization has recommended that trans fats be limited to less than one percent of overall energy intake.
Crystal's crew galleys are now trans-fat free as well. In keeping with its commitment to more healthful lifestyle choices for its crew, Crystal Cruises is focusing on crew menus with more fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains, and offering crew-only wellness classes and sporting activities.
"Unparalleled culinary programs and dining experiences are a hallmark of the Crystal Difference," says Neumeister. "In addition to regionally-inspired menus, world-class chefs, unique specialty dining, and the freshest fare from around the world, we can now also offer both our guests and crew the assurance that all Crystal dining options are completely trans-fat free for a more healthful experience."
Cruise News